One of the earliest traditions of tea drinking in China included drinking tea from a large bowl. Detailed account in this regard can be found in the book Cha Ching (authored by the tea scholar Lu Yu). It is this custom that got expanded into the more famous Japanese tea bowls used in the tea ceremony. During the Ming Dynasty, this custom gave birth to a new tradition of using a smaller bowl, easy to hold, called Gaiwan (covered bowl). Sometimes, it is also called Gai Bei (covered cup).

Making tea in a Gaiwan offers the tea drinker a chance to appreciate the color of leaves as they infuse, experience the aroma as it exudes and provide simplicity in preparation. The lid is used as a strainer to pour the brew into another cup, or to drink from directly. The saucer helps avoid the heat while holding the Gaiwan.

Made with white porcelain, this Gaiwan allows both the aesthetic beauty of the leaf and the aroma of the infusion to be enjoyed to their fullest. A beautiful bamboo design adorns the exterior of the cup portion and lid.

Size: 3.25" d., 2.25" h. 4 ounce capacity.

This Gaiwan is dishwasher safe. However, hand washing will prevent any damage to the fine porcelain.